The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has moved to correct misinformation regarding the financing of supporter trips to the FIFA World Cup, reiterating the government’s firm stance against the use of state resources for such purposes.
In an official statement released today, the Ministry categorically denied claims that public funds are being channeled to sponsor fans travelling to the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The clarification comes amid what the Ministry described as a “deliberate distortion of information” aimed at misleading the public.
According to the statement, His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama and the Ministry have consistently and explicitly ruled out any expenditure from the national treasury for supporter mobilization.
This decision, the Ministry noted, is grounded in prudent economic reasoning, particularly given the estimated cost of up to $11,000 per fan and the pressing need to prioritize domestic development and sports infrastructure.
The Ministry underscored its unwavering adherence to the recommendations of the Justice Dzanefe Committee report and the subsequent White Paper, which explicitly prohibit the allocation of state funds for accompanying national team supporters on international assignments. Hon. Kofi Adams, Minister for Sports and Recreation, has from the outset demonstrated a firm commitment to these directives, ensuring that taxpayer monies are safeguarded and deployed responsibly.
In line with the President’s directive, the government has instead championed a collaborative approach with the private sector. A high-level fundraising event was launched at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, signalling a decisive shift toward corporate-led support for the national team. The initiative aims to raise approximately $30m to underwrite Ghana’s participation in the World Cup.
The Ministry assured that any surplus funds generated beyond essential tournament expenses will be channelled into sports infrastructure development, in alignment with broader national priorities.
Hon. Kofi Adams has given a firm assurance that transparency and accountability will serve as the bedrock of resource management throughout this process. He further expressed profound gratitude to corporate Ghana for the overwhelming response to the government’s appeal for donations, describing it as a testament to the country’s collective spirit.
The Ministry reiterated that its position is not to discourage supporters from travelling to cheer the Black Stars, but to ensure that such efforts are undertaken responsibly, transparently, and without burdening the public purse. Comprehensive updates on the allocation and utilisation of funds received from corporate partners will be provided at the appropriate time.
We remain resolute in our commitment to supporting our national team through private sector partnerships and the prudent management of resources,” the statement concluded.